The bright spot in the Thursday, June 10, City Council meeting was honoring First Responders, an Air Evac team, NARMC EMS Paramedics, and two Boone County Deputies.
Justin Allen, with the California Highway Patrol, wrote a letter of thanks to the city for the first responder, Michael Chambers, and the teams of emergency responders who “saved his daughter’s life.”
Mayor Jackson read a portion of Justin's letter and knew the city and county would be proud to honor the team of professionals who made a difference for the Allen family.
Jackson said, “It amazes me what you do. You first responders are so important. Obviously, you were all a big part in saving this life. I think we know the important job you do, but when it’s your daughter like Justin, it really is a big deal.”
Sheriff Roy Martin said, “I’m very proud of our first responders in Boone County, and it’s great that we work together so well. We are thankful a life was saved.”
Boone County Judge Robert Hathaway and Harrison Mayor Jerry Jackson honored these individuals as Justin had requested.
Judge Hathaway said, “As County Judge, I know you guys are out there day and night and never get enough credit for what you do. I appreciate you. There’s not enough gratitude for the job you do and the lives you save every day.”
The NARMC Director of EMS, Scottie Trammell, said later, “I couldn’t be more proud of our team. In the face of a traumatic and emotionally challenging situation, they showed not only clinical excellence but also deep compassion. Their actions reflect the very best of what it means to serve in EMS. These honors are well deserved — and a reminder of the life-changing impact our professionals make every day.”
Allen updated the first responders on the condition of his children via a Zoom call. “Our son, Hunter, is back to his Jiu-Jitsu classes and rolling around on the gym floor. Our daughter, Kaylee, is doing so well. The doctor has cleared her to start college classes in the fall. She’s disappointed that she won’t be able to play volleyball. There is still some brain swelling, and she will have to miss out on physical activities. But she’s doing great and getting better every day.
In the letter from Justin, he mentioned two Zinc residents, Jennifer and Betty, who were a big help. He listed two Boone County Deputies, David Everhart and Levi Lowery, four NARMC EMS Paramedics, Melissa Henderson, Mackenzie Biggers, Candace Bohmke, Ashlynn Ford, and the AirEvac Team.
The Allen family looks forward to returning to the Ozarks for another visit and saying thanks in person.
Photo:
Honored at City Council were the Air Evac team of Ryan Davis and Joi Baker; NARMC EMS Candace Boehmke, Makenzie Biggers, and Melissa Henderson; Boone County Deputies David Everhart and Levi Lowery; Mayor Jerry Jackson and Boone County Judge Robert Hathaway with Zinc First Responder Michael Chambers center. Not pictured: Ashlynn Ford EMS Paramedic and Sheriff Roy Martin.